Declutter your Time

Do you find yourself running out of time to get through everything you want and need to do? The following tips and ideas (as well as links to previous time management posts) may be the inspiration you need to help you think through managing your time more effectively.

Photo by Fabrizio Verrechia

The most helpful time management tip I have ever read is from Julie Morgenstern's book "Time Management from the Inside Out". She explains that time is like a cupboard. Just like you can only fit so much into the physical space of a cupboard, your "time space" is limited too.So it might be helpful to think about organising time in the same way that you would go about organising a space:

• Think about what the priorities are for your time. As only a limited number of items can fit into a physical space your main priority tasks should be put into your schedule first. I would strongly recommend writing down your goals to help give you a focus for how you prioritise your time. Lower priority tasks can then be fitted around those of higher importance. You might like to read my previous posts "Setting Big Picture Goals" and "Setting Achievable Goals" as inspiration for goal setting.
• Estimate the size of tasks (how long they will take) so you know what will fit into your "time space". If you know how long each particular task will take it is easier to see what will realistically fit into your day so it doesn't get filled beyond capacity. 
• Try grouping like with like tasks. As you would put like items together on a shelf, it might be helpful to do similar types of tasks at the same time. For example if you are going out to do errands, then do all of the tasks that need to be done when you are out and about at the same time. If you are doing admin tasks on the computer then do all your electronic tasks that day while you are at the desk.
• Get rid of "clutter" - that is tasks that are not meaningful or important for you to do, or tasks that can be delegated to others. This may also mean saying "No" to activities and tasks that are not priorities in the current season of your life."The Opportunity Cost of Time" is a previous post about realising that choosing to do something actually means declining to do something else with that time.
• Just like you wouldn't stuff a space absolutely full, allow some space in your schedule to rest and re-charge. "Resting is Doing Something" is my reminder to prioritise rest. Related to this is our need to take time to care for ourselves. "Developing a Self-Care Plan" is some encouragement to do this too.

I hope these ideas have been some inspiration for thinking about how you use your time. Please comment with your top tips and advice for being an effective time manager.

Creating a Happy Home: The Art of Hygge

The word "Hygge" is Danish (roughly pronounced as Hue-gah) and Alex Beauchamp of Hygge House  explains,  "While there’s no one English word to describe hygge, several can be used interchangeably to describe the idea of hygge such as cosiness, charm, happiness, contentness, security, familiarity, comfort, reassurance, kinship, and simpleness."  

She says that  "Danes see both the domestic and personal life as an art form and not every drudgery to get away from...Hygge is about being present enough to recognize and acknowledge an act, moment or feeling when the ordinary feels extraordinary."

Photo by David Mao

So how can we create "hygge" in our lives and homes? Here are some thoughts that I have found in reading about this concept: 

• Hygge is a state of mind where we appreciate the small joys in life and savour the moment. It is about concentrating on contentment and gratitude. So don't rush, take your time over a cup of tea or coffee or having a slow soak in a bath. Also take time to reflect on all that is good in life and things that make you happy.
• Hygge includes hospitality and connection with others too. Social occasions are key; think about sharing a simple meal or some home baked goods with friends and family. In particular consider establishing a routine of eating at a dining table on a regular basis.
• Make your interiors welcoming by using textured blankets and rugs as well as soft pillows. Take some time to position a comfy chair near favourite books or magazines to create a reading nook. In summer time enjoy the natural light by sitting next to an open window.
• Create a cosy atmosphere by appealing to the senses, Snuggle near a fire, use candles or string up fairy lights.Play relaxing music that creates a mood that you enjoy and that makes you feel good. Surround yourself with your favourite photos and mementos to create a homely feel.
• Connect with nature and bring the outside in. Spend time outdoors, walking,picnicking or doing other activities as the weather allows. Also use natural materials, such as wood, inside your home and include plants and fresh flowers too.

What are your tips for creating a cosy and comfortable home? Do you have any home rituals that allow you to savour and enjoy your space? You might also like to read some posts from the archive:  "Five Ways to Make your Home More Comfortable and Cosy" and "Dreaming and Gratitude".